Co-op poses ethical questions

THE Co-operative Insurance Society is to become the first insurer to give policyholders a say on socially responsible investment.

The mutual, which has £20 billion of funds under management, is seeking a mandate from its 5.4 million members on topics such as directors' pay, the environment and ethical issues.

Members will be asked whether dealing with oppressive regimes, such as the one in Burma, helps or hinders human rights in that country.

Questionnaires are expected to be sent to members in the autumn. The initiative mirrors the ethical policy at the Co-operative bank, sister group of the CIS.